In short
- Protein deficiency: hair is limp, mushy when wet, stretches then snaps.
- Moisture deficiency: hair is brittle, snaps immediately when stretched, feels straw-like.
- Weekly rotation of a bond-repair mask and a hydrating mask suits most Londoners.
- Colour-treated and heat-styled hair needs more protein than natural virgin hair.
Every 'my hair is dry' complaint is one of three things: protein deficient, moisture deficient, or both. Getting the balance right transforms hair condition faster than any single product.
The stretch test
Take a wet strand and gently stretch. Snaps immediately = needs moisture. Stretches like a spring and snaps back = balanced. Stretches like chewing gum and stays limp = needs protein.
The London weekly routine
- Wash 1 of the week: hydrating mask (glycerin, panthenol, ceramides).
- Wash 2: protein/bond-repair mask (hydrolysed keratin, Olaplex-style bond builders).
- Every 4–6 weeks in salon: a bond repair or gloss.
- Daily: lightweight leave-in with mixed protein + humectant.
When to break the rule
Coloured or bleached hair — front-load protein. Fine hair — go lighter on protein (it can feel stiff). Curly and coily hair — protein sensitivity varies; test on a small section first.
Hair rarely needs 'more product'. It usually needs the opposite kind of product.
Frequently asked
Common questions
Can I use protein too often?+
Yes — over-proteined hair feels stiff, brittle and prone to breakage. Rotate weekly, not daily.
Are salon bond repairs really different from at-home?+
Yes — professional systems (K18, Olaplex 0+3, Wella WeDo) apply at higher concentration on a controlled processing time.
Is coconut oil a protein?+
No — coconut oil is a lipid. It penetrates the shaft but does not provide amino acid support.
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